Saying Goodbye

Trip Start Mar 06, 2010
1
10
Trip End Mar 13, 2010


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Flag of Haiti  ,
Friday, March 12, 2010

On our last full day in Haiti, our group loaded up in 3 cars and headed down the mountain to assess the needs in Port-au-Prince. Downtown looks completely the same as it was presented on the news. There is little sign of clean up except for a few staggered people moving the rubble rock by rock. There are still an estimated 220,000 people missing, possibly still under the destruction.

We stopped in two tent cities. One city had wall-to-wall white dome tents issued by relief organizations. The children were making toys out of plastic bottles and string. Mothers were washing their clothes and bathing their babies in large bowls outside of the tents. We met a man from South Carolina who was staying in that tent city. He was visiting his family in Haiti during the earthquake and is now unable to leave his loved ones behind in such conditions.
Ten minutes away from being a Hardin-Meyn
Ten minutes away from being a Hardin-Meyn

The second tent city was an overwhelming site. Over 40,000 people were packed in deplorable makeshift tents. Most families used sticks, old sheets, and plastic tarps to rig some sort of protection from the elements. We saw many people using the bathroom in the nearby river. I can only imagine what illnesses are soon to follow.

On the brighter side, we saw U.S. troops handing out 100 lb. bags of rice and plastic bags of water. Children and adults alike were carrying the heavy sacks on their heads in the 95 degree heat. When I asked our host and guide what the plan was for these people, he answered "this is the plan".

I got one more chance to say goodbye to my favorite kiddos I have met this week. Amidst all of the suffering and sickness, their smiles and determined spirits have reaffirmed my faith that this country will survive and transform into a better place.  There is no other option.

Thanks for all the comments and questions on my blog during this trip. A BIG shout out to all my family, friends, and fabuloso babysitter who have been so wonderful along the way. (Who else would have packed their bags, travelled 8 hours, and babysat my 4 kids for a straight week??? Love you Lisa!) I could have never had this experience of a lifetime without you all.

Erin

Port-au-Prince hotels Slideshow

Comments

Patty LaValle on Mar 13, 2010 at 09:31AM

Erin what an amazing journey you had. I am honored to have been part of your journey via your blogs.

Debbie Veith on Mar 14, 2010 at 12:49AM

Thanks for including me on your incredible journey! Welcome home.

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